South Africa begin their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign against Guinea at Orlando Stadium in Johannesburg on Friday. The Group D opener marks the start of Pitso Mosimane's second spell in charge of Bafana Bafana, with the team looking to improve their attacking output after a difficult World Cup 2026.

Mosimane's side managed just one win and failed to progress from the group stage at the global tournament earlier this year. They currently sit second in their World Cup qualifying group with four points from three matches. The coach has emphasised the need for his players to be more clinical in front of goal.

"They can defend well, but also need to fire the ball into the back of the net," Mosimane said.

South Africa will be without several key players for the qualifier. Striker Lyle Foster is unavailable, while Lebo Maboe, Khuliso Mudau, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, and Nkosinathi Sibisi are also missing from the squad. Youngster Relebohile Mofokeng, 21, could feature on the wing or in midfield.

Guinea, led by coach Paulo Duarte, arrive in Johannesburg without a win in their last four matches. Their squad has been bolstered by the recall of midfielders Ilaix Moriba and Madiou Keïta, alongside defender Saïdou Sow. Defender Aboubacar Keïta, 26, has received his first senior call-up.

"The Paulo Duarte-led side must focus on controlling the game from the start or else they are going to have a tough time out there," Duarte said.

The visitors will be without experienced midfielder Naby Keïta, Mohamed Mady Camara, Morgan Guilavogui, and defender Issiaga Sylla. Their main threat is expected to come from Borussia Dortmund striker Serhou Guirassy.

Kenya, the other team in Group D alongside Eritrea, have already qualified for AFCON 2027 as co-hosts. South Africa's next qualifier is away to Eritrea on Monday, 30 September. Fans can follow the team's upcoming schedule and view the latest squad news on our fixtures and squad pages. The match kicks off at 3pm local time and will be broadcast on SABC 1 and SABC Plus in South Africa.

Background and full detail: Khel Now